Located on the temperate coast of Portugal, Lisbon is a city to visit year round.

Like any destination when traveling green, the location of where you stay in a city and environmental impact of the accommodation are extremely important for reducing a travelers carbon footprint. When it comes to the vibrant historical city of Lisbon, Casa do Mercado is an excellent choice for couples, families, and solo travelers. Casa Lisboa has an perfect location in the heart of Lisbon, located in the heart of Lisbon where Barrio Alto and Chaido merge, right off Ascensor da Bica’s district picturesque funicular and Lisbon’s Ribeira Market. One of my favorite things about this location was how close it was to trams (getting to the beach was a breeze) and Museu do Chiado (which is one of Lisbon's main contemporary art museums).

Casa do Mercado Lisboa is a charming eco bed and breakfast with both a rustic and traditional feeling of what I can only imagine an original Lisbon townhouse would feel like. This Bio Bed & Breakfast stays personal to each guest with only 9 rooms and suites, when checking in you'll find the reception and the rooms of this eco b&b to be separated. Personally I found so much of the charm in this, as each time I approached and entered the townhouse it was as if I was a local and stepping into my own chic sanctuary.

Each room in Casa Lisboa has a 'shabby chic' country feeling with wooden flooring and wooden shutters, the color palettes are light and bright which make you feel immediately at home as you sink into relaxtion. The themes of each room vary however they all keep with a 'market stall theme.' But the bathrooms are what really stole my heart during my stay at Casa Lisboa, the Mediterranean tiles and gold fixtures in the bathroom are fit for a king.

Another bonus of staying at Casa do Mercdo Lisboa is the fresh water in your room each morning, forget the 'myth' only bottled water is safe in Europe. Refilled glass water in each room daily is a HUGE cut down on the carbon footprint when traveling and the carbon footprint of this bed and breakfast.

If you're not convinced yet to visit to Lisbon, then take a moment and read some of my tips below on why this city is the perfect holiday away.

Beaches

The city of Lisbon itself may not have beaches but it is surrounded by many and they are all amazing! A few or my favorites are Estoril,Cascais, and Praia da Adraga (which is a bit further away but well worth the trip if you have an extra day).

History

With archaeological finds dating back to 1200 B.C. you will be stunned by the beauty of this city and the history that it holds. One must see day trip (only a 45 minute train ride from Lisbon), is SIntra, you'll find multiple former royal palaces and beautiful landscapes on the train ride there.

Nightlife

And if nightclubs aren't your thing, then instead head to Barrio Alto, which happens to be extremely close to the Eco Bed and Breakfast Casa do Mercado Lisboa that is the eco pick on where to stay in Lisbon. In Barrio Alto you'll find a great selection of bars and late night restaurants.

Food & Wine

Being a coastal city, Lisbon is full of fresh delicious seafood, produce, and wine.

For the vegetarian and vegan check out Jardim dos Sentidos, they have a buffet lunch and al carte dinner.

For the juice and smoothie lover, check out Liquid as a bonus to their delicious drinks they also use corn starch packaging for their cups, lids, and straws (this material is organic waste and decomposes in only 3 months).

For organic burgers check out Filho da Mãe Bio Restaurant, they also have a wonderful vegetarian burger and a lovley organic wine list.

For the ice cream connoisseur check out Cone ou Copo for both organic ice cream and dairy free ice cream.

For the wine enthusiasts be sure to check out BA Wine Bar do Bairro Alto for over 200 Portuguese bottles your bound to find a bio or organic favorite. Tip: Make a reservation online HERE as this place is cozy and small.